(1) Notwithstanding the provision on the addition or deletion of approved routes in section 49-1004(4), Idaho Code, the department may designate routes within its jurisdiction for operation of vehicle combinations with a legal maximum gross weight of at least one hundred five thousand five hundred one (105,501) pounds but not exceeding one hundred twenty-nine thousand (129,000) pounds, utilizing criteria established by the department based upon road and bridge structural integrity engineering standards, as well as public safety engineering standards. Any routes approved by the department shall be included in the statewide route map provided for in section 49-1004(4), Idaho Code, entitled “Designated Routes up to 129K.”
(2) For all requests that new routes be designated for travel by vehicle combinations with a maximum gross weight of up to one hundred twenty-nine thousand (129,000) pounds, the department shall analyze the safety and feasibility of adding such routes within the department’s jurisdiction.
(3) Prior to designating, modifying, or deleting a designation of a route under this section, the department shall publish notice and conduct a public hearing concerning the proposed designation.